Exploring Kanati Fork and Environs

Since Linda is not in any shape to do rough hiking until after her impending surgery, we have had to confine ourselves to riding through the mountains and taking only short, level walks. There is still much to see in the Smokies just off the road a bit. Like the lovely, tumbling Kanati Fork where it spills into the river:

It makes the road look as if it is weeping:

It is a lovely little stream indeed:

Showy Orchis or Orchid (Galearis spectabilis) nearby:

It is interesting this year, high up on the Newfound Gap Road, many flowers are behind in their blooming, while down lower the Spring flowers are about spent, such as this Painted Trillium (T. undulatum):

The Sweet White Trilliums (T. simile) are just hanging on in places:

In some of the coves, Fringed Phacelia (Phacelia fimbriata) blanket the forest floor like snow:

Close-up, these are truly beautiful and delicate flowers:

As noted on this site, there are so many ways to appreciate the rugged beauty of the Smokies!